Bronze letter seal

Archaeology and Anthropology Collections

Bronze letter seal

This mid 18th century bronze letter seal was excavated in 2006 from a small shipwreck in the British Virgin Islands, by a team from the Department of Archaeology. Wood type analyses suggest that the site is a vessel of 60 tons, built for trade, and originating in the Circum-Caribbean region. This artefact was located to the port side of the stern assembly, amongst other finds which included lead musket shot and a Spanish colonial silver coin. An embossed symbol situated at the base of the seal would have identified a key member of the ship's company, and was used for authenticating personal letters and contracts.

  • Photographer: Dave Newbury
  • Copyright: University of Bristol
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